Endocrinopathy clinical trials

Test-enhanced Learning to Prepare for Future Learning in Endocrinology

The use of test-enhanced learning with causal connection and in preparation for future learning has been used in health educational setting with positive results. However, most studies were performed in a controlled lab scenario and not in the "real world" of medicine classes, decreasing the external applicability of such experiments. Therefore, the aim of present study is to evaluate if a session of test-enhanced learning at the beginning of endocrinology course, using basic-clinical sciences connections of key concepts, would prepare for future learning of endocrinology on a theory-practical 4-week endocrinology course. Methods Study design, participants and description of undergraduate endocrinology course This is a prospective, single center, non-blinded, RCT. Participants are students of medicine from Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil, in their third year of Medical School, recruited at the beginning of endocrinology undergraduate clinical placement. This clinical trial follows the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement, which includes the completing the CONSORT checklist. Sample size Based in a previous study, to find a difference in the percentage of correct answers in a cognitive test to evaluate retention of 12%, considering a SD of 26%, alpha error of 5%, beta error of 20%, and repeated assessments (baseline, 3 weeks and 6 months), 35 students will be necessary in each group. To account for possible losses of follow-up, 84 students will be included. Study intervention All students will receive, in advance, a text with basic sciences information relevant to the learning of Endocrinology (supplementary material), with instructions to study the text before intervention day. Students will be randomized to one of the interventions: TEL with questions about diabetes and adrenal (Block A, 6 questions) or thyroid and hypophysis (Block B, 6 questions). Important endocrinology concepts, such as fuel metabolism and circadian rhythm will be included in Block A, and feedback loops and hormone synthesis in Block B. Specific hormone functions will be part of both TEL Blocks. Assessments At the same day of intervention, students will answer all questions 12 of the TEL session (questions from blocks A and B) with best answer multiple choice questions (immediate retention test). After 3 weeks and 6 months, the transfer of knowledge will be assessed with a 24 multiple choice questions test, based in clinical cases.